2 dealer groups expand footprints in SoCal

SoCal Penske Dealer Group announced it acquired the Fuller Ford, Fuller Honda, Fuller Kia and Fuller Collision Center in Chula Vista, Calif., further expanding its footprint in the Southern California market.

“Closing this purchase represents a significant milestone for SoCal Penske Dealer Group and gives us deeper roots in the San Diego retail market,” the group’s chief executive officer, Roger Penske Jr., said in a new release. “Fuller Motors is one of the largest employers in the City of Chula Vista.

“A great deal of effort from both sides went into ensuring a smooth transition for the Fuller employees. We are thrilled to now count their employees, guests and neighbors among our friends and family and look forward to developing strong ties to the local community.”

SoCal Penske now has a total of 14 dealerships in Southern California since acquiring the Fuller stores.

Galpin opens exclusive Kia dealership in Southern California

Galpin Motors’ latest franchise, Galpin Kia in North Hills, Calif., is just adjacent to Galpin’s main campus on Roscoe Boulevard and finished last month as the No. 8 Kia dealer in the country.

The new store is the exclusive Kia dealership in San Fernando Valley County and the 12th franchise to join Galpin’s collection of brands, which includes Ford, Lincoln, Mazda, Aston Martin, Honda, Subaru, Volkswagen, Lotus, Volvo, Jaguar and Spyker.

Galpin Kia officially opened in October and its inventory is made up of Kia’s full line of cars and SUVs.

“We couldn’t be more excited about the opening of our Kia dealership,” Galpin Motors president and chief operating officer Beau Boeckmann said in a news release announcing the opening. “I just returned from Seoul, Korea, where I was able to see the amazing Kia factory, its beautiful cars and wonderful designs.

“The automaker has been incredibly successful at building a line of stylish, quality cars that are still attainable for consumers. Having a Korean family, I feel especially honored to add a Korean brand into our Galpin family.”

In addition to its collection of franchises, Galpin Motors also operates its well-known customizing shop, Galpin Auto Sports (GAS). GAS is the former home to MTV’s Pimp My Ride and a popular shop for a number of Hollywood’s elite, according to the group.